Changing Terminology from ESL to EAL ( 11 KB)
Manitoba is implementing a change from using the term English as a Second Language (ESL) programming to English as an Additional Language (EAL) programming. Both terms (ESL and EAL) are used interchangeably on this website during the transition period.

Adult English as an Additional Language programs are funded and coordinated by Manitoba Labour and Immigration, Adult Language Training Branch. Contact them for information on adult programs, English language assessments, and teacher support materials.

English as an Additional Language Funding Enhancements
On January 26, 2006, the Minister of Education, Citizenship and Youth announced a significant restructuring and strengthening of English as an Additional Language (EAL) support beginning with the 2006-2007 school year. The restructuring of the EAL Support Grant extends eligibility to four years and increases funding available in a student's first year of EAL programming. Previously, students in Grades 1 to 8 were eligible for only two years of funding, and students in Senior Years were eligible for three years of funding. New guidelines have been developed and distributed to schools.

Guidelines for the English as an Additional Language Support Grant
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support is available for pupils with limited proficiency in the English language who are receiving EAL curriculum, instruction and related services on September 30th of the current school year. Funding will be provided for a maximum of four consecutive years. The guidelines provide direction for the planning and implementation of EAL programming and services. Additional current information regarding the English as an Additional Language Support Grant can be found in the Funding of Schools 2009-2010 reference guide. Instructions to assist school divisions in meeting the requirements for the reporting of students for the EAL Support Grant are found in the Public Schools Enrolment and Categorical Grants Reporting for the 2009-2010 School Year booklet.

Guidelines for the Intensive Newcomer Support (INS) Grant
Guidelines for the new INS Grant were released in March 2006. The grant is intended to promote divisionally-coordinated specialized intensive programming for Middle and Senior Years newcomer EAL learners from refugee/war-affected backgrounds who have significantly disrupted schooling. The programming should address essential language, foundational academic and literacy skills and cultural orientation. To obtain an INS Grant, school divisions must submit a program proposal for approval. The proposals can vary according to the needs of the learners and the context of the school division, but must meet the criteria as described in the Guidelines booklet. Students who are part of INS projects are also eligible for the EAL Student Support Grant (above).

In 2006-2007 school year, 10 divisional Intensive Newcomer Support projects were funded through this grant. In 2008-2009, additional funding available through the INS Grant led to the expansion of several projects to include additional sites, a wider age-range of students, or enhanced services.

Funding for Temporary Residents Policy
Students who are temporary residents of Manitoba may be eligible for the EAL Support Grant under certain circumstances. The provincial policy statement concerning the funding of temporary residents clarifies federal policy and the documentation requirements that temporary residents must have to be lawfully present in Canada, as well as the documentation schools must request temporary residents to provide.